“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 1 February 2015 Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing. “RICOCHET” The official newsletter of the V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast Sub-Branch Inc. Honour The Dead......But Fight Like Hell For The Living! If not delivered within 7 days, return to:- V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast Sub-Branch Inc. PO Box 533 COTTON TREE 4558 Postage Paid Australia Pre-Print Publication No. 441332/00004 SURFACE MAIL Website: www.vietnamvetssc.org.au E-mail: [email protected]Ed. E-mail: [email protected]
Transcript
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 1 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
“RICOCHET”The official newsletter of the
V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast Sub-Branch Inc.Honour The Dead......But Fight Like Hell For The Living!
If not delivered within 7 days, return to:-V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast Sub-Branch Inc.PO Box 533COTTON TREE 4558
OFFICE HOURSMONDAY - THURSDAY 9am – 4pmFRIDAY 9am – 1pmFRIDAY (POSH LADIES GROUP) 1pm – 4pmWEEKENDS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Closed
SUICIDE PREVENTION EMERGENCYDavid Stevenson is the 24 hour on call Suicide Prevention Coordinator
for ALL veterans and their families on the Sunshine Coast.We have a team of nine volunteers who are trained in this field.
A minimum of two Intervention Officers respond to a call out at any time.The number to call in an emergency is: 0457 704 966 anytime, day or
night.WELFARE EMERGENCY
For all emergency welfare matters outside of the Drop-In-Centre workinghours, call David Stevenson on: 0457 704 966. But for any emergencywelfare matter within Drop-In-Centre working hours, please call the DutyWelfare Officer on: 5443 2250 or the Drop-In-Centre Duty Officeron: 5479 4552.
The Drop-In-Centre working hours are:Monday–Thursday: 9am-4pm. Friday, 9am-1pm.and Friday 1pm-4pm for the ladies’ group, POSH.
DISABLED ACCESS TO THE DROP IN CENTREFor those with disabilities that prevent them from using the stairs to theDrop-in-Centre, there is a lift available at the Council Library next door.Ask one of the Library staff to accompany you, so that the top flooraccess door can be unlocked. To leave, ask the Duty Officer to phonethe library on 54758915 and they will unlock the access door.
DISCLAIMERThe committee of Vietnam Veteran Association of Australia Sunshine CoastSub-Branch Inc. and its individual members take no responsibility for errors,omissions or inaccuracies contained in this newsletter, nor accept liability forany loss or damage suffered directly or indirectly from the use of informationcontained in this newsletter, and do not warrant that opinions published in thisnewsletter are necessarily the opinions held by the Vietnam VeteransAssociation of Australia, this Sub-branch or the Committee of thisSub-branch, including its individual members.
Air Force Association Norm CooperTracker Dogs Association Ian AtkinsonMooloolaba Surf Club Kevin LynchBuderim Hospital Kevin LeadbetterDVA Consultative Committee Kevin LeadbetterArmy Cadets/ARES David StevensonAir Force Cadets Norm CooperNaval Cadets Carl Britz
Team Leader.AAT/AdvocateAdvocates.
Admin Officer.Welfare/PensionOfficers.
Welfare Officers.
Hospital Visiting.
Suicide PreventionCoordinator.
Mentors andConsultants .
Mario LorenzonHelena Smith JP (Qual)Ray Krzyzanski JP(Qual)Ron Strong JP (Qual)Phil Gejas
THE VETERANS AND VETERANS FAMILIES COUNSELLING SERVICETel: (07) 5458 6012 Fax: (07) 5479 5468
PO Box 1797, (or, 129 Horton Parade) Maroochydore, QLD, 455824 Hour Crisis Line Toll Free Ph. 1800 011 046
The Maroochydore Office consists of a full time Coordinator/ Counsellor,Office Manager, and a part time Counsellor. The office is open from 8.30 am to4.30 pm weekdays. It helps if you make an appointment.
The VVCS provides counselling and support to all veterans of overseasconflicts. The families of Vietnam Veterans are also able to receive counsellingthrough us. Group programmes include the Lifestyle Management Program (5days live-in with partner) and the Heart Safe Program (12 month gym). Othertherapeutic/educational groups are being planned for the Sunshine Coast.
Pensions and Welfare Team
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 3 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
NEXT GENERALMEETING
Tuesday 17th February 20151000 hours, in meeting room
adjacent to Drop-in-Centre
NEXT MANAGEMENTCOMMITTEE MEETING
Tuesday 17th February 20140900 hours, in meeting roomadjacent to Drop-in-Centre
VIETNAM VETERANS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA SUNSHINE COAST SUB-BRANCHMINUTES OF THE GENERAL MEETING HELD AT COTTON TREE QLD ON THE 16th DECEMBER 2014
OPENING: The President declared the meeting open at 1233hrs and recited the Ode.ATTENDANCE: Attendance and apologies are as per the Attendance Book.PREVIOUS MINUTES: It was moved by Norm Cooper that the minutes as recorded in Ricochet are a true and accurate accountof the November General Meeting. (G46/14) Seconded by Dave Oliver..Carried.BUSINESS ARISING: NilCORRESPONDENCE: It was moved by John Cunnington that the inwards correspondence be received and the outwards beendorsed. (G47/14) Seconded by Col Parkin..Carried.TREASURER’S REPORT: It was moved by Glen Preston that the Treasurer’s report be accepted as tabled and that all expenses beratified. (G48/14) Seconded by Athol Johnston..Carried.MEMBERSHIP REPORT: There are 393 financial members. Three new Members:- John Tait, (Army-3RAR/1ARU), Phillip Young,(Army-ALSC), James Muir, (Army-4Fld.Regt). It was moved by Pieter Reus that the new members be ratified and the report be accepted.(G49/14) Seconded by Col Parkin..CarriedMERCHANDISE REPORT : The national website is up and running although there is a delay in deliveries. Athol Johnston movedthat his report be accepted. (G50/14) Seconded by Fred Crick..Carried.NEWSLETTER: 312 Ricochets were mailed. Prohibitive costs precluded sending out a colour copy to members inDecember. Ricochet will continue to be sent at the current mailing rate. It was moved by Steve Boutlis that his report be accepted. (G51/14)Seconded by Glen Preston..Carried.OFFICE MANAGER: Duty officers were acknowledged for their contributions in 2014. A vacancy exists for four Fridaymornings in February 2015. Members should contact Tom Scott if they are available to assist. It was moved by Tom Scott that his report beaccepted. (G52/14) Seconded by Norm Cooper.. Carried.PENSIONS AND WELFARE: Mario Lorenzon has another person coming on board in January to train as a pension officer. Morepension officers are urgently required.
VVAA poised to adopt paper requiring three year TIP training for pension and welfare accreditation.STATE REPRESENTATIVE: Ron Strong informed members on aspects of the internal operational audit report on RemembranceHouse that was recently presented to the State Management Committee.
Attendees were in agreement that the opinions of members of the Sunshine Coast Sub-Branch becanvassed via Ricochet and Heads-Up regarding the future of Remembrance House.
President, Ron Strong, to request, (through state body), that other Sub-Branches in Queenslandcanvass the opinions of members in relation to the future of Remembrance House.GENERAL BUSINESS: Members voted unanimously to adopt the Drop-In Centre identification sign, designed by Mal Overend.Mal will attend to making the sign.
Ron Strong and Steve Boutlis will have completed the review of the Constitution and By-Laws before theAGM in February.
Names for the Caloundra and Mooloolaba Triathlon can be recorded on the lists on the Drop-In-Centrenoticeboard.
Patron Laurie Drinkwater agreed to again be the association’s patron in 2015.CLOSURE: There being no further business, the President declared the meeting closed at 1320 hours.
Management Committee Meetings, and General Meetings, are held every third (3rd)Tuesday of each month except January when meetings are not held.
Annual General Meeting Tuesday 17th February 20151100 hours, in meeting room adjacent to Drop-in-Centre
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 4 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
RIFLEMEN’S LUNCHEON
The riflemen’s luncheon is held on the first Friday ofeach month at the Mooloolaba Surf Club at 1200 hrs.
Drinks at own expense and finger food for about $15.00depending on numbers.
Dress: Casual.Any queries contact Kevin Lynch 0416275504.
QLD TPI ASSOCIATION (Sunshine Coast)
The Association meets on the third Wednesday of themonth at RSL House, Memorial Avenue, Maroochydore.Meetings start at 10.30am, Wives and partners welcome.Secretary: Tony Creswick-Jackson 54934719President: Dave Wallis 54483346Vice President: Jack Pegg 54486117Editor: Keith Lane 54500098
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
MALAYA AND BORNEO VETERANS’ ASSOCIATIONThe National Malaya and Borneo Veterans’ Association
Sunshine Coast sub-branch meets on the fourth Tuesday ofeach month at 10 am at the Kawana Surf Club, PacificBoulevard, Buddina.
On the second Tuesday of the month there is a lunchand social gathering. For further information contact Roy on54777758 or Fred on 54927506.
VVAA Sunshine CoastWE ARE
DESPERATEThe Sub–Branch’s mission, “To
assist all veterans, dependants, andtheir descendants, in all mattersrelating to their health, welfare andwellbeing”, is in danger of fallingshort.
Since the beginning of the year, our Pensions Officershave taken on more than 200 cases.
We are desperately short of Pensions and Welfarepeople for us to be able to service the increasing needs ofour young and not so young Veterans.
Due to a variety of needs, we are now two morePensions Officers less, with another being advised toslacken off or he would end up in hospital.
The DVA at Maroochydore has been advised to notrefer any more new cases to our Sub-Branch.
Partners and wives are most welcome to join our team.Professional training is provided
Do you like helping people?Do you relate well to people?Do you like learning new things?Do you have some computer use knowledge?Are you able to devote one day a week to helping ourveterans?
If you answered “yes” to these questions, go to page 6.If you didn’t answer yes, you can still go to page 6.
ANNUALGENERAL MEETING
TUESDAY 17th FEBRUARY 2015at 1100 HOURS
After the General Meetingheld at 1000 Hours
IN MEETING ROOM ADJACENT TODROP-IN-CENTRE
BBQ will follow at end of AGM
Note that some nominations forOffice Bearers have been receivedand are on the DIC notice board.
If necessary, nominations willbe taken from the floor at themeeting.
========================
Other thanthat, how wasyour fishing
trip?
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 5 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
“This is the best wedding I’ve ever been to”.These were the words Pete Veltmeijer proclaimed,
somewhat cheekily, after he and Sheila finally tied theproverbial knot on Saturday, December 13th last.
According to Peter’s son, Mark, the happy coupleshattered the Guinness Book of Records for the longestcourtship in history.
Thirty-five years does sound a rather drawn out periodto assess compatibility. Then again, Sheila was always one toutilise her feminine guile. She patiently paced herself over theyears, cognizant of the fact that it takes time to achieveperfection.
Perfection finally arrived during amoving ceremonywhen a radiant Sheila, and a dapper Peter, exchanged vowsbefore family and friends.
Peter and Sheila are trulyone of the most honest, genuine,positive and fun-loving couplesthat one could hope to meet.
They have battled adversitywith courage and an unfailing selfbelief that is inspirational. Theirlove for each other wasilluminated by Sheila’s beamingsmile and the heart-felt words oftheir wedding vows. Peter’scomment that Sheila ‘took mybreath away’, reflected the joyousambiance of the day.
Sheila’s words were alsosynonymous with the lovingaura of the moment. ‘Do youknow how much work you haveto do to change your name oneverything.’ How sentimental isthat?
Everyone in theAssociation who has had thepleasure of knowing Pete andSheila, wish them well for a long and fruitful marriage,although there was some mild shock and scepticism at thewords of Pete’s son that perhaps, in the future, “we may hearthe pitter-patter of little feet”.
The happy couple could only have a short honeymoonas Sheila had to return to the Sunny Coast for a PVAChristmas party. It only goes toprove that a wife always considersher veteran husband’s welfare.
World’s Longest Engagement........Is Over
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 6 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
Well, we are into the year 2015.As you would be aware, if you are on the
Headsup list, there are two Triathlons comingup and the lists are up on the board in the DropIn. The first of these is as always theCaloundra Tri on the 8th February and then theMooloolaba Tri on the 15th March. If interestedyou can get your names on the board, via theDuty Officer. Thanking You in anticipation.
Duty Officers
All of these great members make it possible forthe Drop-In and Welfare, and of course, Alaric, tooperate from day to day, so a very BIG THANK YOU tothese people. Allan continues doing Duty Manager atAlaric.
If you would like to have a go at being a Duty Officer,contact the Office Manager as we are always looking for more.
Jewellery Makers
The Diggers’ Hat crews are back at work again as theorders rolled in for Legacy Week and Remembrance Day. To theGuys and Gals who work so efficiently and professionally, a bigthank you. There are plenty of spaces for more willing workers,as sometimes, it gets hard for those regulars. If you can seeyourself being able to help, give Barry a call on 5445 2874 for alook-see.
Ricochet Folders, Staplers, Mailers
A thank you to those who formed a team to compile, print,fold, tape, and post the Ricochet Newsletter. It’s a big job.
Thanks to: Mick Howe, Scotty, Buddy Fuhrmann,Johno, Steve Boutlis.
BIRTHDAYS
The Ricochet Editor, Committee, andmembers, wish the following members a veryHappy Birthday on their Special Day in the MerryMonths of February:
Alec Chesters, Ron Drummond, BillF innemo re , BruceFraser, Robert Giffen,Peter Grubb, DarrylHobbs, Jeff Hodges,Bob Jeffrey, GranvilleJoycey, David Kimball,
Doug Kippen, Max Lampo,Bill Lipscombe, MarioLorenzon, Kevin Lynch, Steven McKay, Dave Montague,Dave Oliver, Col Parkin, Keith Peatling, Pieter Reus, RonRoberts, Peter Spindler, Arthur Steer, David Stiles, LeonStubbs, Peter Thomas, Brian Waldron-Lamotte, Peter
Williams, Ray Wood, John Tait, Neil Eiby, Barry Kirby, GaryPothoven.
====================
HUMOUR
Noah's Ark was built by volunteers. The Titanic wasbuilt by professionals.
Volunteering: we don't pay, so no, you can't quit.
A volunteer offers to help out at a community farm.Little did she know that she would be mucking a filthy
sheep stall.After two hours of toil, she looks down, dismayed at her
filthy jeans and boots. The farmer in charge sees her andsays, "What did you expect? Sheep happens."
MAL’S STUFF
IS THIS YOU?If you answered ‘yes’ to the questions on page 4, then you possess the attributes that a good
Welfare and Pensions Officer needs.And, the Welfare and Pensions Team needs more good people like you.So, how about giving the Team Leader a call to find out more about what is involved in
helping your fellow veterans by becoming a Pensions Officer? Call Mario Lorenzon on 0407 497.
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 7 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
Private Bruce Robert Turrise,
There must be some of you out there who knew him.How about helping his daughter? Reply direct to Julie.
The Nominal Roll shows that he served in Vietnam with:1 ARU 26/2/68 - 17/3/68; 2 RAR 18/3/68 - 1/6/68;Charlie Coy. 4 RAR 2/6/68 - 19/12/68
Hi,My father was in the Vietnam War, his name is Bruce
Robert Turrise, DOB 27 January 1945.I don't know a lot about his time in the War as he has
never really talked about it with any of his kids, so if you needmore information, that is all I have.
What I wanted to know is my father always talks aboutcatching up with the guys he served with but has never madecontact and he has a very bad heart and I am worried he maynever get this chance to do so. I would like to see if throughthis email to you we can organise a way for this to happen? Ifyou cant help maybe you can send me in the right direction asmy father's birthday is coming up I would love to get somethingorganised for then if possible.
Look forward to hearing back from you in regards tothis matter,
Call Anthony on (07) 5443 2821102 Sugar Rd. Maroochydore 4558
Locally owned and operated.Proud to be of service to our Veterans.
IMPORTANT NOTICESINVITATION TO FREE FOOD
Meals On Wheels have invited us to help themcelebrate “The Spirit Lives On” commemoration of theCentenary Of Gallipoli at a luncheon on Sunday 22nd April,at their building adjacent to the Maroochy RSL, MemorialAve, Maroochydore.
Lunch supplied free of charge.Please contact our secretary, John Cunnington on
Ph. 5493 3513 by 1st April if you wish to attend.
====================
SUB-BRANCH MEMBERSHIPThe Membership Officer has informed me that membershiprenewals are lagging behind last year.
I wish to remind all members that membership renewalis now due.
A random draw of financial members for a prize of adinner for two to the value of $150 to the member who hasrenewed by 31st March 2015.
====================
PROPOSED CONSTITUTION ANDBY-LAWS
Ron Strong and I have revued our Current Constitutionand By-Laws and propose that a new Constitution and By-Laws be adopted by members.
It is thought by us that the new versions will be lesscumbersome, and will allow speedier amendments as theyare needed to meet future needs.
A hard copy is available at the Drop-In-Centre as wellas being available on our website, http://www.vietnamvetssc.org.au
The two documents will be tabled at the GeneralMeeting to be held on Tuesday 17th February 2015.
Comments that you may have may be left at the DICfor attention of Ron Strong.
====================
REMEMBRANCE HOUSEBURPENGARY
Do you have any suggestions as to the future of theproperty at Burpengary, Remembrance House, whosepurchase by a previousState ManagementC o m m i t t e e , w a scontroversial.
Our President,Ron Strong, would likeyour feedback, and hewill be presenting hisv i e w s f o r y o u rconsideration, in a futureedition of Ricochet.
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 8 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
VIETNAM VETERANS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA SUNSHINE COAST SUB-BRANCH
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
HELD AT COTTON TREE QLDON THE 18 FEBRUARY 2014
OPENING: The President declared the meeting open at 1052 hours.ATTENDANCE: Attendance and apologies was as per the Attendance Book.PREVIOUS MINUTES: It was moved by Glen Preston (AGM01/14) that the minutes were a true and accurate account ofthat meeting. Seconded by Jens Petersen..Carried.AUDIT REPORT: It was moved by Glen Preston (AGM02/14) that the Audited Financial Report be accepted as tabled.Seconded by Athol Johnston..Carried.
The Auditor Mr Frank Redpath gave a brief on his qualifications and gave his opinion on the way we run our accounts. Itwas a glowing report. Frank was thanked and applauded.PRESIDENTS REPORT: The President read his written report and handed over the meeting to the Patron Laurie Drinkwater.ELECTION OF COMMITTEE AND OFFICE BEARERS: The Patron took the Chair and announced the incoming Presidentthen congratulated him and handed over the Chair for the remaining voting. The list of all incoming Committee positions andoffice bearers voted into their respective jobs is attached.
The Financial and Alaric Sub Committee’s, the Welfare Team, and Honorary positions were Ratified for this financialyear. This was moved by Keith Lane (AGM03/14) Seconded Kevin Leadbetter..CarriedGENERAL BUSINESS: Moved Pieter Reus (AGM04/14) that the Ballot Papers be destroyed. Seconded Keith Lane..Carried.CLOSURE: There being no further business the President declared the meeting closed at 1135 hours.RAFFLE DRAW: The esky won by Mark Ward from Rotary.
Editor: The addendums to these minutes are on Page 13 of this edition of Ricochet.
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 9 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
THURSDAY BREKKY
The Thursday Morning Breakfast,(back of the Mooloolaba Surf Club),continues to be one of theAssociation’s social highlights thanksto the commitment of the King Of TheThursday BBQ, Geoff Jewell.
If you haven’t experienced the breakfast, comealong, bring your partner, and partake of great food andcompany.
See you there at 0730hrs.
SC SUB-BRANCH’SWEEKLY GOLF DAY
THURSDAY THRASHERSMANY OF OUR MEMBERS PLAY 9
HOLES OF GOLF EACH THURSDAY AT12.15HRS.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLAY, COME TO NAMBOURGOLF COURSE. SUITS BOTH GOOD AND HACKERS.COST: $15 INCLUDES GREEN FEES & PRIZES
GUARANTEED GOOD FUN AND LAUGHTER .
VOLUNTEERS REQUIREDFOR DROP-IN-CENTRE
To ensure that we continue our excellent service toVeterans, volunteers are needed to act as Duty Officers atthe Drop-In-Centre.
Shifts are less than a half day commitment. You’llenjoy the time! Tom Scott will assist with the smallamount of training necessary.Please phone Tom, our Office Manager, on 0419 032 610or, on a Tuesday, at the Drop-In-Centre on 54794552.
TOM NEEDSYOU!!!!!
WALLY
A young boy named Wally lived in Punchbowl, asuburb in South Western Sydney.
None of his classmates liked him cause of hisstupidity, especially his teacher, who was always yellingat him, "You are driving me mad, Wally".
One day Wally's mum came to school to checkon how he was doing.
The teacher told his mum honestly, that her sonis simply a disaster, getting very low marks and even she hadnever seen such a dumb boy in her entire teaching career.
The mum was shocked at the feedback and withdrew herson from the school. She even moved out of Sydney, to North ofNewcastle and enrolled Wally into a private school.
Twenty five years later, Wally’s former teacher wasdiagnosed with an incurable cardiac disease. All the doctorsstrongly advised her to have heart surgery, which only onesurgeon in Australia was capable of performing, but it was risky.
Left with no other options, the teacher decided to have theoperation, which was successful. When she opened her eyesafter the surgery she saw a handsome doctor smiling down ather.
She wanted to thank him, but could not talk. Her facestarted to turn blue, she raised her hand, trying to tell himsomething, gasping for air which she could not draw in. She thusdied.
The doctor was shocked and was trying to work out whatwent wrong. He turned around he saw our friend Wally, workingas a cleaner in the clinic. He had unplugged the oxygenequipment so that he could connect his Hoover!
Don't tell me you actually thought that Wally had become aheart surgeon?
5 Gregson Place, Caloundra Ph. 5491 155926 Wises Road, Maroochydore Ph. 5443 995334 National Park Road, Nambour Ph. 5476 2866
202 Eumundi-Noosa Road, Noosaville Ph. 5470 2664
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 10 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
Hi, all.We have had a very good year and
look forward to an even more interestingone coming up in 2015.
Not wanting to preempt the electionof your 2015 Committee, I can say thatMal Sayers, Glen Preston, John
Cunnington, Steve Boutlis, Peter Reus, Athol Johnston, DaveOliver, Peter Veltmeijer, Col Parkin and others have put theirhands up for election.
It is important that we find members to put their handsup and learn the roles occupied by these members so theyhave plenty of support.
Our Patron, Laurie Drinkwater, has agreed to continuein his role and we are grateful for his support.
Our Welfare/Pension Team is struggling at the momentwith the number of clients they have been looking after. TerryDwan is having a break of 12 months. Other members have toundertake refresher training before they can operate in theirpast roles. Two new people have put up their hands toundertake training and it will take a little bit of time before theyare up to speed. Margo and Alan Christie continue to takecare of Welfare, Administration, and the birthday calls, whichare used to touch base with our members that we do not seetoo often to ensure they are still going OK or need assistance.The Team Leader Mario Lorenzon has negotiated withWelfare and Pension Officers at Mudjimba RSL to acceptclients that we cannot handle at the moment. Alec Chesterscontinues to visit ADF persons who find themselves in hospitaland to provide them with support.
The Alaric Committee and Duty Manager Allan Bullockhave seen a good past year, and we are grateful for theirwork. They look forward to keeping the Retreat open forpeople from all over Australia. More cost savings will be madewhen the solar panels are installed. Even the Treasurer had asmile on his face form time to time this year and we arelooking to the Committee to find new ways to keep that smilethere.
The Jewelery workers, lead by Barry Rogers with hiswife’s support, have had a very productive year keeping pacewith demand. I had the opportunity to attend Barry’s residenceduring one of the teams operations. The members there weremaking this a social event as well as support work for our SubBranch, which we all appreciate.
The VV Day OrganizingCommittee of John Cunnington, Barry Rogers, Larry Barkerand Graeme Scott, organized VV Day 2014 at Caloundra. Ireceived comments from those that attended stating that itwas one of the best they had attended. This OC has alreadystarted to organize for the coming year and will have us wellahead for 2015.
We cannot leave out thanking those volunteers whomade themselves available for BBQ’s and marshaling atTriathlon, which raised several thousand dollars for ourcoffers. Other volunteers, namely the Duty Officers under theleadership of Tom Scott, keep the Drop-in-Centre open formembers and other ADF who drop in for a chat, coffee and abiscuit. If you are lucky enough to be there at midday onTuesdays, Tom turns up with hot chips and everyone presenttry to help him keep his weight down by helping eat the chips.
The social Thursday mornings at Mooloolaba Surf Clubare well organized and attended. It is encouraging to seesome younger ADF persons attending. In 2014, we had onebarefoot bowls afternoon and one movie luncheon, that weresuccessful and I am hoping we can do more social events in2015.
Summing up, I believe we had a good year and therewas a lot of hard work done by your committee members andother supporters. It would be great to see more membersattend meetings and put their hands up for BBQ’s and othermoney making volunteer events.
POSH Ladies Group continues to have their Fridayafternoon meeting and other socials to enjoy. SheilaVeltmeijer can attest to the POSH Ladies thinking out of thebox when they organized Sheila’s Hen’s Night at Mooloolababefore Sheila and Peter were married in December 2014.You will have to ask Sheila about the experience.
Finally I would like to thank your committee membersand office bearers for their work during the year. In addition Ithank you all for maintaining your membership, which helps tokeep the Sub-Branch afloat to:- Honour The Dead …..ButFight Like Hell For The Living!
I hope to see as many of our members at the AGM,General Meetings, DIC, Volunteering or Social Events. If youknow of any young ADF persons please invite them to joinwith us.
Ron StrongPresidentVVAA Sunshine Coast Sub Branch.
PRESIDENT’S 2014 REPORT.
Fast Food
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 11 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
BIG BAD BOLD BEVIE’S TRIVIA???????????????????
1. True or false, Venus rotates counter clockwise?
2. What is the name of the lead singer of Led Zeppelin?
3. David Boon represented Australia in what sport?
4. Who is the current Lord Mayor of Brisbane?
5. Name the Australian Prime Minister who made the "I did
but see her passing by" reference about the Queen?
6. When were the English and Scottish crowns separated,
1603,1772, or 1814?
7. Point Lookout is on which Queensland Island?
8. Who was Australian Prime Minister in 1942?
9. A massive cyclone destroyed a pearling fleet and killed
400 people in 1899 at which Queensland bay?
10. The Golden Gate Bridge spans what strait?
Answers are on Page 15
The Fishing Segment.By Scaly Tails
Been a quiet month on the fishing scene for me withChristmas and New Year celebrations. It's a great time of theyear seeing family and seeing how much the grand childrenhave grown. The look of expectation on the children'sfaces, when opening their presents, makes it all worthwhile.
Sometimes all the preparation for a fishing trip makes itall worthwhile when you catch a few good ones.
My Pin-Up girl has been at it again.Her partner recently bought her a charter fishing trip out
to the Barwon Banks, for her birthday.There were thirteen males and one female on board.
Most of the men on board were plumbers from Brisbane,celebrating Christmas. Needless to say they were enjoying afew ales on the way until wind blew up. You know the result onthe fair weather sailors.
Yours truly was not present but I doubt that I could havecaught a better fish than the Black Trevelly (it was the fish ofthe trip) caught by Yvette.
Apparently there was plenty of burley and some of theheartier drinkers failed to wet a line. What a waste.
Locally, the spotty mackerel are plentiful, as well as tuskfish on the bottom if you can find a spot amongst the throng ofboats chasing them.
I hope that you all had an enjoyable festive break.Cheers,ST.
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 12 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
NEW MERCHANDISE
FIVE FUNCTIONPOCKET KNIFE
This knife has 5 stainless steel tools: the main blade, atin opener, a flat-head screwdriver/bottle opener, a corkscrewand a Phillips screwdriver! Colours are: black, red blue
Ultra-practical, you can also use it as a key-ring.We have to order a minimum of 50 so I need
expressions of interest ASAP.Price will be$8.00 plus shipping
Phone JOHNO on 04 7856 4483Or the Drop-In-Centre on 07 5453 4552Or E-mail [email protected]
HONEST WIFE
A police officer pulls over a speeding car and says to thedriver, “I clocked you at 120 km/h, sir”.
The driver says, “Christ, officer, I had it on cruise controlat 100. Perhaps your radar gun needs calibrating”.
Not looking up from her knitting the wife says, “Now don'tbe silly Dear. You know that this car doesn't have cruisecontrol”.
As the officer writes out the ticket, the driver looks over athis wife and growls, “Can't you please keep your mouth shut foronce?”
The wife smiles demurely and says, “You should bethankful that your radar detector went off when it did”.
As the officer makes out the second ticket for the illegalradar detector unit, the man glowers at his wife and saysthrough clenched teeth, “F...k it woman, can't you keep yourmouth shut?”
The officer frowns and says, “I notice that you're notwearing your seat belt, sir. That's an automatic $75 fine”.
The driver says, “Yeah, well, you see officer, I had it on,but took It off when you pulled me over so that I could get mylicense out of my back pocket.'
The wife says, “Now, dear, you know very well that youdidn't have your seat belt on. You never wear your seat beltwhen you're driving”.
And as the police officer is writing out the third ticket thedriver turns to his wife and barks, “WHY DON'T YOU SHUTTHE F..K UP?!”
The officer looks over at the woman and asks, “Does yourhusband always talk to you this way, Ma'am?”
“Only when he's been drinking”.
The knife is inscribedwith:
Vietnam VeteransDrop-in-Centre
Cotton TreeQLD 4558
Ph 07 5479 4552
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 13 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
Annex to 2014 AGM Minutes: Election of Committee and Office Bearers.
Ron Strong for President…. Nominated by Glen Preston … Seconded by Mal Sayers ….SuccessfulMal Sayers for Snr Vice…..nominated by Ron Strong……Seconded by Glen Preston…. successfulDavid Oliver for Jnr Vice….Nominated by Graeme Scott……Seconded Mal Sayers…. SuccessfulJohn Cunnington for Secretary ..Nominated by Peter Veltmeijer…seconded by Mario Lorenzon….SuccessfulGlen Preston for treasurer….Nominated by Ron Strong……Seconded Mal Sayers….. SuccessfulPieter Reus for Membership Officer …Nominated by Mal Sayers… Seconded Colin Parkin….SuccessfulSteve Boutlis for Ricochet Editor….Nominated by Paul Musk….Seconded Edward Dwann…..successfulThe following members have been nominated for the other three Committee members:-1 Peter Veltmeijer……Nominated by John Cunnington…….Seconded by Mario Lorenzon… successful2 Colin Parkin….. Nominated by Mal Sayers…..Seconded by Glen Preston…..Successful3. David Stevenson…..Nominated by Norm Cooper….Seconded by Col Parkin…Unsuccessful4 Keith Lane….Nominated by Steve Boutlis …….Seconded by Tom Scott.... Unsuccessful5 Jens Petersen……Nominated by Steve Boutlis….Seconded by Mal Sayers...... Unsuccessful6. Athol Johnston…..nominated by Mal Sayers………Seconded by Glen Preston…. successfulOffice BearersTom Scott for Office Manager…Nominated by Mal Sayers….Seconded by Glen Preston…. successfulMal Sayers for Assistant Treasurer…Nominated by Glen Preston….Seconded by Helena Smith….. successfulAthol Johnston for Merchandise Officer….Nominated by Mal Sayers….Seconded by Trevor Hagan… successfulKeith Lane for Assistant Treasurer…..Nominated by Steve Boutlis…..Seconded by Glen Preston… UnsuccessfulThe Auditor Mr Frank Redpath has applied to serve us in the Capacity of VVAASC Auditor for 2014…AcceptedSigned as an accurate transfer from Nomination Forms received and voted on at 2014 AGM .Mal Sayers_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Secretary VVAASC ( incoming Senior Vice President)18/02/2014.
Place your preference 1-3 beside the nominated candidates that you would like on the Management Committee (three namesonly)
Place number 1 beside the nominated candidate you would like to see as the Assistant Treasurer (Office Bearer)
When Completed this form is to be handed to the Scrutineer’s. Thank You.
Peter Veltmeijer
Colin Parkin
David Stevenson
Athol Johnston
Jens Petersen
Keith Lane
Mal Sayers
Keith Lane
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 14 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
Shorn Sheep
In the winter of life she seeks warmth of earlier yearsOf happiness with much laughter and seldom tearsA home with open windows and welcome mat at the doorNever a problem to walk alone to the corner storeA shake of the hand was your word and commonly usedA time when you gave honest answers without being suedA precious way of life accepted as the normYet with apathy we could become sheep to be shorn
Today those happy homes where respect for all was dearAre now brick fortresses captured by suspicion and fearLocked doors and barred windows are a common sightComplete with chained dogs barking and bright security lightsMuggings, rape and carjacks by night and by dayA smothering political correctness you don’t question but obeyGone the chattering barefoot children walking to schoolNow they’re herded by escorts and ferried in car pools
In one padlocked castle our old lady lives aloneFramed photos of loved ones on a feature wall of stoneSo long ago they sailed away to fight the strifeTo defend our nation’s precious way of lifeA legacy for future generations in all those tomorrowsShe recalls the bloody hardships with pride and sorrowSweet victory over evil and blessed peace but at terrible costAnd today wonders how such a way of life has been so easilylost
All of the ten senior membersof the Board of Directors of thecompany were called into thechairman's office one by oneuntil only Bob, the juniormember, was left sittingoutside.
Finally it was his turn tobe summoned. He entered theoffice to find the chairman and
the ten other directors seated around a table.He was invited to join them, which he did.As soon as he had sat down the chairman turned to
Bob. Looking him squarely in the eye, and with a stern voice,asked, "Have you ever had sex with Mrs. Foyt, my secretary?"
"Oh, no sir, positively not!". Bob replied."Are you absolutely sure?", asked the chairman."Honest, I've never been close enough to even touch
her!"."You'd swear to that?"."Yes, I swear I've never had sex with Mrs. Foyt anytime,
anywhere"."Good, then you can fire her" !!!
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 15 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
1. A blonde man is in the bathroom and his wife shouts,"Did you find the shampoo?
He answers, "Yes, but I'm not sure what to do... it's fordry hair, and I’ve just wet mine."
2. A blonde man goes to the vet with his goldfish."I think it's got epilepsy," he tells the vet.The vet takes a look and says, "It seems calm enough
to me."The blonde man says, "Wait, I haven't taken it out of the
bowl yet."
3. A blonde man shouts frantically into the phone, "Mywife is pregnant and her contractions are only two minutesapart!""Is this her first child?" asks the Doctor."No!" he shouts, "this is her husband!"
4. A blonde man was driving home, drunk as a skunk.Suddenly he has to swerve to avoid a tree, then another, thenanother, then............
A cop pulls him over, so he tells the cop about all thetrees in the road.
The cop says, "That's your air freshener swingingabout!"
5. An Italian tourist asks a blonde man: "Why do scubadivers always fall backwards off their boats?"
To which the blonde man replies: "If they fell forward,they'd still be in the boat."
6. Two blonde men find three grenades, and they decideto take them to a police station.
One asked: "What if one explodes before we getthere?"
The other says: "We'll lie and say we only found two."
1. True.
2. Robert Plant.
3. Cricket.
4. Graham Quirk.
5. Robert Menzies.
6. 1603.
7. North Stradbroke Island.
8. John Curtin.
9. Bathurst Bay.
10. The Golden Gate Strait.
ANSWERS TO BIG BAD BOLD BEVIE’S TRIVIA
THE BLONDE MAN HAS FINALLY ARRIVED!
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 16 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
It was getting a little crowded in Heaven, soGod decided to change the admittance policy.The new law was that in order to get into Heaven,you had to have a really bad day on the day thatyou died. The policy would go into effect at noonthe next day.
So, the next day at 12:01 pm, the firstperson came to the gates of Heaven.
The Angel at the gate, remembering the new policy,promptly asked the man, "Before I let you in, I need you to tellme how your day was going when you died".
"No Problem", the man said. "I came home to my 25thfloor apartment on my lunch hour and caught my wife havingan affair. But her lover was nowhere in sight.
I immediately began searching for him. My wife washalf naked and yelling at me as I searched the entireapartment. Just as I was about to give up, I happened toglance out onto the balcony and noticed that there was a manhanging off the edge by his fingertips! The nerve of that guy!
I ran out onto the balcony and stomped on his fingersuntil he fell to the ground. But wouldn't you know it, he landedin some trees and bushes that broke his fall and he didn't die.In a rage, the first thing I thought of was the refrigerator. Ipushed it out onto the balcony and tipped it over the rails. Itplummeted 25 stories, and crushed him! The excitement ofthe moment was so great that I had a heart attack and diedinstantly".
The Angel sat back and thought a moment. Technically,the guy did have a bad day. It was a crime of passion.
The Angel announced, "OK, sir. Welcometo the Kingdom of Heaven", and let him in.
A few seconds later the next guy came up."Hi there. Before I can let you in, I need to
hear about what your day was like when youdied."
The guy sighs and says: "No problem. Butyou're not going to believe this. I was on the
balcony of my 26th floor apartment doing my daily exercises. Ihad been under a lot of pressure so I was really pushing hardto relieve my stress. I guess I got a little carried away, slipped,and accidentally fell over the railing! Luckily, I was able tocatch myself by the fingertips on the balcony below mine.
Then this crazy man comes running out of hisapartment, starts cussing, and stomps on my fingers. Well, ofcourse, I fell. I hit some trees and bushes at the bottom, whichbroke my fall, so I didn't die right away. As I'm laying thereface up on the ground, unable to move and in excruciatingpain, I see this guy push his refrigerator off the balcony. It fallsthe 25 floors and lands on top of me, and it takes a whilebefore I die"..
The Angel is quietly laughing to himself as the manfinishes his story. "I could get used to this new policy," hethinks to himself. Very well," the Angel announces. "Welcometo the Kingdom of Heaven," and he lets him enter.
A few seconds later, a third guy comes up to the gate.The angel asks him, "And what was YOUR day like?"The guy says, "*OK, picture this. I'm naked, inside a
refrigerator...*"
A Really Bad Day Gets You Into Heaven
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 17 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
Postal address:Alaric Veterans & Ex Servicemen’s Retreat
C/- PO Quilpie Qld 4480Phone/Fax: 07 4656 4740Email: [email protected] Manager: Allan Bullock 07 4656 4740
Alaric Sub–Committee:Allan Bullock, Ian (Buddy) Fuhrman, ShaneRosenow, Mal Sayers, Dave Oliver (Cookie) JP(Qual), Norm Cooper.
20 page Alaric Photobook nowAvailable
$25.00Order at the Drop In Centre withPrepayment to the Duty Officer
### $5.00 from each sale toward Alaric running costs
Come for some outback golf or watch the wild life or even to just takein the outback scenery, just come and visit, relax and put the feet up.
Monthly Report
The wet season has started, although there has not been enough rainaround the Maranoa District to break the drought conditions. As far as Alaric isconcerned there has been enough to almost stop the December Duty ManagerMick O’Mallon from being relieved. I take this opportunity to thank Mick for puttinghis hand up to do the job. Thanks and well done Mick. Allan is home with hisgrandchildren and hoping to have a damaged eye fixed. At the time of writingShane and Liz Rosenow are out ther with their Children looking after the place andthey will be relieved by the ever dependable Buddy who will be acting as theGeneral Carrier delivering all the new Air Conditioners. Once again I have toreiterate my disappointment that there were none of our other Members puttingtheir hands up.
I would also like to thank Darryl Kirkpatric for the work he has done on the SubCommittee. He is stepping down, and we wish him well.
$25.00Order at the Drop In Centre withPrepayment to the Duty Officer
$5.00 from each sale goes toward Alaric running costs
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 18 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
Do you know of any Vietnam Vets who went toHunters Hill High School ?
I'm hoping you might be able to assist. I'm a Sydneyschool teacher at Hunters Hill High and am currentlyconducting a search of ex students who served in Vietnam (orany other subsequent conflicts).
What I am planning to do is to put up at the school anhonour roll for these veterans.
So far I have fifteen names and I'm still searching. WhatI am after is contact details for any Battalion Associationsbased in Queensland, as I have been told that quite a numberof Vietnam Veterans settled in south-west Queensland.If there is any way you could be of assistance I would be
most grateful.Kind regardsDaniel (tel: 0407 228 742)
=============
I am researching for a biography on Ray Simpson VC.DCM. I wish to contact Cpl D. J. Griffiths DCM. (if still with us)to confirm if he was at the same lunch as "Simmo" on theRoyal Yacht Brittania on 2 May 1970 the day after Simmo wasinvested with the VC by H.M, and if he can remember ifSimmo was there!Regards,Peter Lutley (ex 7 RAR 2nd Tour SVN)Email: [email protected]: 0416307734
====================
I am searching for information about a long lost relativewho received a medal for entertaining in the Vietnam war. Hername was Irene Bakewell, and her stage name was ChrisMartin. She is my mother who I have not seen since 1957.
I only recently found her history, photos, and have beenso proud to read about her and see her on war memorialwebsite. I have been looking for her in all sorts of ways overthe last 30years and this is the first solid information I havefound. I cannot however find if she is still alive. Would it bepossible to talk to your association re: any information youmay have? I realize there are privacy issues and I would notwant to upset her in any way. Please can you help? Thankyou for taking the time to read this.Many thanks.Christine Marrinan.E-mail: [email protected]: 0423,532,046
====================
RMIT Student writing a book and wishes to speak toNATIONAL SERVICEMEN 5RAR FIRST TOUR.
G’day mate,My name is Lyle Johnson, Nasho No. 3795023.Amongst a number of others, I did my basic training at
Pucka with Wally, and also caught up with him in Vietnam , Iam hoping that you or one of your members knows Wally orcan put me in touch with him. We are trying to contact our unitmembers from 2RTB, as our unit photo is part of the Wall atSeymour, and we are trying to get us all together for a reunionin October this year.
Hoping you can help.I remain yours, sincerely.Lyle Johnson. Mobile No. 0438835579
====================
Dear Sir, I have lost contact with my brother, Malcolm JohnSIMM original address Private Bag Tongala, Vic. 3621. He wasborn on 2/12/1949 and was a Lance-Corporal in Vietnam under aSergeant Payne. He was a 2nd forward scout as I recall. I think hewas in D Company and went to Vietnam in 1970 and returnedbasically when everyone withdrew.
The last time I had contact with him was after working atKubby Station in Derendbandy in Qld, and then transferred to Ayr inQld. That would be 4/5 years ago.
I cannot obtain his employment details and his ex partner willnot provide me with an address. It has been suggested that I contactthe local branch of the AYR Qld R.S.L
I am trying to locate a Mr. Peter Anthony Walker.service number 2787647, D.O.B 3/2/1947, last known locationwas Western Australia but was born in NSW. I am looking tofind his brother who is the father of my younger sister. If he isa member please pass on my contact details, home phone0 2 4 5 7 4 2 0 3 6 , m o b i l e 0 4 2 3 0 7 9 9 0 3 , E m a i [email protected] any assistance is this matter wouldbe greatly appreciated. Thank you.
====================
I would like to contact Robert Cameron who joined RAAF in1964 as an apprentice electrician at Wagga Air force base andI believe retired back to Qld.
Robert was a good support to me when i lost my motherat age 16 while at Wagga apprenticeship scheme. I left theRAAF in 1972 and have lost contact, if Robert is contactableand willing it would be great to catch up.ThanksRobert [email protected]
455 Felton RoadPittsworthQLD 4356
DO YOU KNOW ANY OF THESE DIGGERS?
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 19 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
HERE TO HELP YOU WITH:All Aches and Pains
Spinal and Sports Injuries
Pre and Post Surgical CareCardiac Rehab/Diabetic Control
Weight Management/Breathing DifficultiesMVA, WorkCover and Insurance Claims
DVA-Veterans CarePre and Post Natal Care
Health fund REBATES APPLY TO ALL appointments.No referral needed
It is a life-long journey to learn how to eat well, movewell and think well. But it is NEVER too late to get started,although it seems very daunting sometimes! This time of theyear always presents a new opportunity for us all to bringhealthy changes in our lives and find wellness.
Wellness is about optimal wellbeing. Nutrition, exerciseand mind all play a part in our Wellness.
EAT WELLWellness and health go hand in hand. It is easy to get
overwhelmed with all the information on TV, internet andamongst friends and family. Here are a few simple tips thatcan create a good foundation to healthy eating:
Eat more whole foods, less processed foods. Lots of fruitsand Vegetables, yes!!
Check the ingredients on the products (avoiding too manyadditives and preservatives).
Find sustainable food habits that work for you – healthyeating becoming more a lifestyle than a temporary“diet”.
MOVE WELLExercise is Medicine!! There are huge benefits in
exercising. Moving well is about making you feel goodphysically AND mentally.
Increase your physical activity and reduce your sedentarytime : our worst enemy lives in our lounge….our sofa!
Choose a physical activity that you enjoy: walk, bowls,golf, gym…
Be smart about your training and consistent: see yourdoctor before starting a new activity.
THINK WELLWe need to train our mind to think positively to help us
live our lives fully. It is possible to retrain our minds throughneural pathways and positive psychology to achieve ourvisions / goals.
Set up some achievable short/medium/long term goals:could be to retrain your balance after a fall, to walk abit longer every time you have a chance, to steadyyour blood pressure through exercise and nutrition etc
Next year, we will be discussing the elements of human wellbeing.
HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE QUANTUM TEAM !!
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 20 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
(For Moff, Silver Star (US),Don Cameron DCM, MM, Bomber HarrisDFC, Don Parsons and Barry Caligariwho once upon a time stood by theirbeds for inspection before they toobecame mentors.)
It is sometimes said that madnessis evident in the army Put anotherway, many of those who took theoath became balmyGiven habits of beloved mates, Ican’t argue with such suggestionsCos soldiering from days gone by raises many questions
Countless room inspections, so essential for neatness andprideGear carefully folded and a neatly made bed which youstood besideThen minders flung our items here and there creating aterrible mess“Do it all again” they screamed, spitting saliva andclearly in stress
When on parade, the Sergeant gave the command to restIt simply meant you were about to be given another testStretch, yawn or shuffle your feet could mean terriblestrifeDare scratch your nose and military law would disruptyour life
Soldiers not on time were confronted with punishmentand scornYet officers arriving late were greeted with salutes, nightand mornFor weeks we were taught the difficult drill to march sovery slowOnce mastered, quickly was the order “Marching atdouble time, go”
When an officer on parade said he wanted to hearsoldiers’ viewsIf someone offered one, a sergeant screamed “Horriblesoldier you”At meal time, the orderly officer asked if there were anycomplaintsAnyone who did wasconfined to barracks andwhite rocks to paint
Only recruits cheered at the news“We’ll stop and camp very soon”Odds were you’d be marching atmidnight without light from amoon“There’s been a change of plans”was news which spelt woeMore walking, no meal, hurry upand wait; who knows where to go?
“Tighten your belts, there’s no rations coming our way”Yet forbidden to eat your emergency ration then or anyother day“What are you doing?” was a question sergeants wouldoften askIf you fell for the trap and pleaded “Nothing” you weregiven a task
Wash, starch and carefully iron a uniform again andagainThen be told you look horrible when on parade in thepouring rainIn war games when firing blank at pretended enemy, Iswear it’s trueA corporal did yell, “Ya missed him, it’s extra trainingfor you”
When an officer on patrol said “This map is out of date”You knew you were lost and only God knew your fateA new officer would promise routine would be as beforeThat very night by “Lights out” there were new rules andmore
Oh, how many times did we hear “March the guiltybastard in”Before any evidence had been presented of a military sinScreams and threats by NCOs for trespassing on theparade groundA terrible sin not to stand fast as our beloved flag camedown
Old soldiers fondly reflect on such thingsCos they realise the discipline, purpose and pride it didbringThat helped rally them together and survive in terriblestrifeRules, routine and madness which were always part ofmilitary life
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 21 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
POSITION NOMINEE NOMINATOR SECONDER
PRESIDENT Ron Strong JP (Qual) Mal Sayers David Oliver
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Mal Sayers David Oliver Athol Johnston
JUNIOR VICE PRESIDENT David Oliver JP (Qual) Malcolm Sayers Colin Parkin
SECRETARY John Cunnington Glen Preston Colin Parkin
TREASURER Glen Preston Colin Parkin David Oliver
MEMBERSHIP OFFICER Pieter Reus
EDITOR OF RICOCHET Steve Boutlis Michael Howe
MERCHANDISE OFFICER Athol Johnston Mal Sayers David Oliver
COMMITTEE MEMBER 1 Col Parkin Malcolm Sayers Glen Preston
COMMITTEE MEMBER 2 Athol Johnston Malcolm Sayers David Oliver
COMMITTEE MEMBER 3 Peter Veltmeijer John Cunnington Steven Boutlis
OFFICE MANAGER Tom Scott Malcolm Sayers Glen Preston
ASSISTANT SECRETARY Colin Parkin Mal Sayers Glen Preston
ASSISTANT TREASURER
COMMITTEE MEMBER 4
NOMINATIONS RECEIVED FOR OFFICE BEARER POSITIONS OF VVAASC SUB-BRANCH INC.
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 22 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
Department shift opens door to hundredsof claims by veterans
DAN BOX THE AUSTRALIAN JANUARY07, 2015
HUNDREDS of military veterans deniedcompensation for injury or illness could takelegal action against the federal government,after it quietly stopped using a privateresearch company to investigate veterans’cases.
The Australian revealed last year thatthe company, Writeway Research Service,was involved in a commonwealthinvestigation over the use of an allegedlyforged document to challenge one service- woman’s case.
Court documents show the Department of Veterans’Affairs subsequently conceded it had stopped using Writeway,which has received nearly $1 million to produce hundreds of“research reports” on veterans since the late 1990s.
These reports are often disputed by the veteransthemselves but can have a huge influence on the decision togrant them a pension or other compensation for woundssuffered on active service. The decision to stop using thecompany has raised questions over the department’s relianceon its reports and could open the floodgates to a tide of legalclaims.
One veteran, whom The Australian agreed not to name,recently appealed to the national Administrative AppealsTribunal, challenging the DVA’s decision to deny his claim forpost-traumatic stress disorder. Citing the fact that thecompany was no longer used by the department, his casedirectly challenges the credibility of a Writeway report drawnup two years before that decision was made.
Last August, the tribunal overturned a DVA decision todeny another veteran, Grant Martin, an incapacity pensionafter the department’s lawyer admitted it was no longer usingWriteway. After being challenged about the company’s reportinto Mr Martin’s service on board HMAS Canberra in theMiddle East during 1993, the DVA lawyer asked not to use itin the case. “The investigation that was requested for thedepartment of the Writeway services is still ongoing,” DVAlawyer Bruce Williams told the tribunal. “Until such time asthat’s resolved, the instructions of advocacy … is not to relyupon their services.”
Mr Martin, a former navy radar plotter whosubsequently served as a detective with the NSW PoliceForce, said the sudden climb-down came after the departmenthad fought “tooth and nail”, repeatedly rejecting his claim formore than two years.
He developed PTSD and depression after being warnedthe ship he was serving on was under Scud missile attackfrom Iraq, Mr Martin said, and approached the DVA at hisdoctor’s suggestion after being repeatedly hospitalised. Henow suffers “night terrors”. “I have to sleep in a separate bedfrom my wife because of violent fits and throwing punches allthe time,” he said. “You’re on a knife edge all the time. Youcan’t sleep, you can’t relax, you can’t concentrate, it feels likeyour head’s going to fall off.” The initial Writeway report found
there was “no evidence” to support Mr Martin’sclaim the Canberra took evasive action afterthe missile threat was announced. In contrast,the tribunal’s final decision found “there was amissile alert … (Mr Martin) perceived a veryreal threat from the announced missile attack”.
His subsequent illness was “war-caused”, the tribunal found, and he was“entitled to receive a pension in respect ofincapacity associated with those conditions”.
In the last full financial year during whichWriteway was employed, the DVAcommissioned 99 “military research reports”into 78 veterans, most of them conducted bythe company. In half of these cases, thesubsequent compensation decision went
against the veteran.John Tilbrook, an army reserve officer who founded
Writeway and also works in the Army History Unit, said theDVA was still not employing the company today. He had beeninstructed by a departmental director “not to discuss anyrelationship with DVA and Writeway with the media”.“They’ve actually got an investigation going,” Mr Tilbrook said.“We’ve provided information and not had any feedback. Thegrain machine takes a long time to make any decisions, asyou know.”
The ongoing investigation centres on allegations a 2012Writeway report into an unrelated veteran’s claim relied on aforged letter claiming to have been approved by the head ofthe powerful Australian Signals Directorate.
Initial investigations by the Department of Defencefound the letter, which challenged some of the veteran’sclaims, had not been produced by the intelligence agency, norwith its sanction. The letter’s author, a former army lieutenantcolonel, personally provided it to the Writeway researcher,himself a former colonel, who the company said had taken thedocument “on face value”.
Rod Thompson, a veterans’ advocate leading the newlegal challenge to the DVA’s use of a Writeway report, said,“There’s literally hundreds if not thousands of Writewayreports that have impacted on the way decisions are made. Ithink if it’s found Writeway have been fraudulent … there hasto be some sort of compensation. You can’t use these reportsand if they are found to be flawed, you can’t just get away withsaying sorry.”
The DVA declined to answer questions, insteadreleasing a written statement saying: “The recent issues ... arecurrently under investigation. Due to privacy reasons, it willnot be possible to release the findings.”
Being a financial member of the VVAA Sunshine Coast Sub-Branch Inc. DO HEREBY ACCEPT THISNOMINATION.
Signed……………………………………………………….. Dated this day of 2015
THIS FORM TO BE RETURNED TO THE SECRETARY BY 1200HRSTUESDAY 3rd FEBRUARY 2015
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 24 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
THE TRUE BLUEAIR FORCE NEWS
PAGE
COURTESY OFINTERNETRESEARCH
THIS MONTHWE HAVE A TRUESTORY OF THE B17
YE OLD PUBA MIRACLE EVENT
For Aircraft Buffs Googlehttp://imageevent.com/okbueno/mopic
CAMP GREGORY UPDATE
Camp Gregory has received, and now hasconverted some buildings that are ready for use,with a great big Aussie Flag painted on one.
With these new facilities and plenty ofCaravan sites, it is a great Retreat to consider areunion trip, or to just go and put your feet up.Soon all the comforts of home. There are nowtwo picture books in the Drop In Centre for youto peruse. Your stay is FREE.
COME AND VISIT
2nd Lt. Charlie Brown & his B-17F Flying Fortress named“Ye Olde Pub”
2ND Lt. Charlie Brown was a B-17F Flying Fortresspilot with the 379th Bomber Group at Kimbolton, England.
His B-17F was called “Ye Olde Pub” and was in aterrible state, having been hit by flak and fighters. Thecompass was damaged and they were flying deeper overenemy territory instead of heading home to Kimbolton. Mostof the tail & half of the stabiliser were gone. After flying overan enemy airfield, a pilot named Franz Stigler was ordered totake off and shoot down the B-17F. When he got near theB-17, he could not believe his eyes. In his words, he “hadnever seen a plane in such a bad state”. The tail and rearsection was severely damaged, and the tail gunner wounded.The top gunner was all over the top of the fuselage. The nosewas smashed and there were holes everywhere.
Despite having ammunition, Franz flew to the side ofthe B-17 and looked at 2nd Lt. Charlie Brown. Lt. Brown wasscared and struggling to control his damaged andbloodstained plane. Aware that they had no idea where theywere going, Franz waved at Charlie to turn 180 degrees.Franz escorted and guided the stricken plane to and slightlyover the North Sea towards England. He then saluted CharlieBrown and turned away, back to Europe. When Franz landedhe told the CO the plane had been shot down over the sea,and never told the truth to anybody.
Charlie Brown and the remainder of his crew told all attheir briefing, but were ordered never to talk about it.More than 40 years later, Charlie Brown wanted to find theLuftwaffe pilot who saved the crew. After years of research,Franz was found. He had never talked about the incident, note v e n a t p o s t - w a r r e u n i o n s .
They met in the USA at a 379th Bomber Group reunion,together with 25 people who are alive now - all because Franzn e v e r f i r e d h i s g u n s t h a t d a y .
Research shows that 2nd Lt. Charlie Brown lived inSeattle and Franz Stigler had moved to Vancouver, BC, afterthe war. When they finally met, they discovered they had livedless than 200 miles apart for the past 50 years!
In his first letter to Brown, Stigler had written:"All these years, I wondered what happened to the B-17, didshe make it or not?" She made it, just barely. But why did theGerman not destroy his virtually defenceless enemy?"I didn't have the heart to finish off those brave men," Stiglerlater said. "I flew beside them for a long time. They weretrying desperately to get home and I was going to let them doit. I could not have shot at them. It would have been the sameas shoot ing at a man in a parachute."
Sadly, Franz Stigler passed away on 22 March 2008.Charlie Brown passed away on 24 November 2008.
Ph. (07) 4129 4030
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 25 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
It is good to sit down andhave a chat again.
Man, am I in trouble! You know mywife likes to read the Ricochet? She saysshe likes to see what we men and inparticular the ladies in our Partners ofVeterans groups, (POSH) and GEMS, areup to, and she enjoys the jokes. Well,she read the December issue and sheasked me what kind of a Chaplain am I?She correctly noted that there was not aword about Christmas in my Fire Side Chat, and after all,that’s what Chaplains should be all about.
I tried to explain myself, but only dug a deeper hole formyself, and I guess many of my veteran colleagues out thereknow where I am coming from. You’ve been there, haven’tyou?
By the time you read this, Christmas will be over foranother year. I trust you and your family had a wonderfulChristmas and for those who still regularly practice their faith,that you had a Blessed and Holy Christmas.
I guess you know that here in America, the trend is notto say, ‘Merry Christmas’ for the link with Christians, (ChristMass) so the trend has become to use the all inclusivegreeting, ‘Happy Holiday’. I heard someone greet another overhere recently with a ‘Merry Christmas’ and the receiver of thegreeting thanked the person saying it was really good to hearthat phrase is being revived.
On the subject of Christmas, most of us will have seenChristmas pageants, if not with our own children, but with ourgrandchildren. Most of us know the Christmas story by heartfor it is a central theme in our belief for those who callourselves ‘Christian’.
My wife and I have just witnessed one of the bestChristmas pageants we have ever seen. Our grand daughtersattend the Saint Mary Sacred Heart School in North Attleboro,Massachusetts. Two churches, Saint Mary’s and SacredHeart, about two kilometres apart, have joined their schoolstogether, under the Chaplaincy of Father David Costa, (FatherDave to all), the Parish Priest at the two churches.
Father Dave and the students of SMSH School have for
several years put on the Christmaspageant with some of the most colourfulcostumes we have seen. The seventyvoice choir from Years 1 to 8, underFather Dave’s direction, sang severalmodern and old favourite ChristmasCarols and songs.
I won’t ramble on too much abouttheir presentation, as great as it was. Theschool’s last song of the night was an oldAfrican Spiritual, and the boys and girls
sang it with gusto as Father Dave encouraged them all theway with his leading and deep bass voice. You can hear it foryourself, for the school’s presentation of “Children Go Where ISend Thee” is now on the school’s web site. You’ll find that onwww.smshna.com . On the left hand side of the Home Pageyou’ll see ‘School Videos’.
Maybe you can tell me when we come back to the Landof Oz if you agree with me that it was a great pageant, withthe sample of the student’s enthusiastic singing on theirSchool’s web-site. The whole presentation revealed thetalents of so many children, and it is good to know that theyoung people of today appreciate the values that their parentsand grandparents have held all their lives.
Come to think of it, the same is true for Anzac Day. Iam ever so pleased to see the growing numbers of childrenwho attend our commemoration services, mostly on AnzacDay but on other special commemorative days that mean somuch to our generation. I think that you’ll agree, with theenthusiasm of these and other children like them, the future isin good hands.
Oh, and not forgetting that New Year’s Day will havealso passed by the time you read this, I wish all my fellowveterans a very Happy and Prosperous New Year. Thesedays, most of us would be willing to swap ‘Prosperity’ for goodhealth. So perhaps I should wish you all a Happy andHealthier New Year.
Arthur FryHonorary Chaplain
Fireside with the Padre
Was your job as good asthese two?
Sewage Manhole Cleaner Aim high! Aim high!
“Ricochet” - Official newsletter of V.V.A.A. Sunshine Coast 26 February 2015
Mission: To assist all veterans, dependants, and their descendants, in all matters relating to their health, welfare and wellbeing.
Application for Membership/RenewalRENEWING MEMBERS NEED TO COMPLETE 1-6 ONLY!
1. FAMILY NAME....................................... GIVEN NAME...............................NICKNAME...................... ..2. SERVICE NUMBER....................................3. EMAIL ADDRESS...............................................................................4. RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS....................................................................................................P/C..............5. POSTAL ADDRESS (If different from above).............................................................................P/C..............6. Phone no. (......)..................... Mobile No. ................................... Partner’s Name ........... ............
7. Date of Birth ......../......../........ Date of Enlistment ......./......./........ Date of Discharge ......../.... ..../......
8. Did the Veteran serve under any other name Y/N if so– Family Name.....................Given Name..................
10. Type of Membership Applying for - Ordinary, Associate, POSH Associate (circle one please).
11. Do you have a skill that Welfare could use? If so please advise ............................................................. .......
12. If you fall ill, do you give permission for notification in the newsletter or noticeboard in the office? Y/N13. If you are hospitalised, do you give permission for our Hospital Visitation Officer to visit you? Y/N
14. Do you give permission for your name and service details to be printed in the Newsletter? Y/N15. BRANCH OF SERVICE— NAVY — ARMY — AIRFORCE (Please circle)
Ex-service personnel other than Australian must supply copy of Discharge Certificate and Drivers License.
New applicants for membership must have a nominator and seconder.Nominated by: .....................................................Signature of Nominator: .................................. ............Seconded by: .......................................................Signature of Seconder: .................................. .............Annual Subscription Payment can be made direct to: Westpac Bank BSB No. 034-198 Account No.237008. Please enter your name and what the payment is for, in the reference space.Ordinary $25.00Associate $20.00POSH Associate $7.00Donation $............. Thank you!Please make Cheque/Money Order payable to: VVAA Sunshine Coast Sub-Branch Inc.Post to: VVAA Sunshine Coast, PO Box 533, COTTON TREE, QLD. 4558I, the undersigned, hereby apply to be admitted to membership of the VVAA Sunshine Coast Sub-BranchInc. and, if elected, I agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of its Constitution, By-laws andStanding Orders which are now in force and which hereafter be in force.
Signature of Applicant............................................................................ Date........./... ......./.............
1st Tour 2nd Tour 3rd Tour
From......./....../......To ....../....../...... From....../....../......To ...../...../...... From ......../......./....... To ...../..../....
Received by .............................................. (Please Print) Receipt No.................Date ......./......./.........
